Fox Vally Park District wants to hear from residents

As parents of teenagers can certainly attest, communication is a challenge.

It’s supposed to be a two-way street but, in reality, talking with teens can be a dead-end deal.

They just don’t listen.

So it was refreshing — and reassuring — to learn that there are still folks out there who appreciate what you have to say. That’s exactly what the Fox Valley Park District is looking to do — especially during the next two weeks — with a survey campaign that’s all about listening.

In fact, we want to hear from you — and we are genuinely interested in your thoughts. The park district truly values two-way communication, because it’s essential in determining how to best serve our 233,000 residents across Aurora, North Aurora and Montgomery.

But it’s more than just seeking answers to questions. Facility surveys and program surveys provide valuable feedback on what you like most, what you’d prefer to be different and all other opinions in between.

Think of these surveys as a partnership. User input helps the park district chart a course for the future by shaping the decisions and the direction of programming, classes, events, policies, facility features, etc.

There is one catch, however. Most of us are inundated by survey requests on a daily basis — “survey fatigue,” they call it — and dismiss such requests.

But our surveys are different. We’re not test marketing a product in hopes of making big profits. No, these surveys are a barometer to gauge what you want and how you think things could be made best — which is to your direct benefit.

Since good partners are hard to find, the FVPD is showing its appreciation to survey-takers with an extra thank you. For the next two weeks, park district community centers (Prisco, Eola, Vaughan and Red Oak) will have special survey tables; all those who participate and complete a survey on-site will be given a free giveaway.

Surveys are also available at www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org. All online survey takers will be eligible for a $50 FVPD gift card — it just takes a few thoughts and a few clicks to put your name in the prize drawing.

Also, participants in fall programs will be asked to provide their feedback once the program is complete.

Perhaps you’ve taken an park district survey in the past and you’re wondering, “Why would I want to take another survey?” For one, a running commentary is beneficial to all. Programs and classes evolve and change — and so does your opinion — which is why the park district always values your latest thoughts on anything and everything that matters to you in the world of parks, recreation and the pursuit of fun.

Contrary to a texting teenager’s world view, conversations are still part of communication. The park district wants to hear what you have to say. Better yet, we’ll listen.

Ÿ Jeff Long is the public relations manager for the Fox Valley Park District. Contact him at jlong@fvpd.net.